PALESTINE

Visit of Secretary (CPV and OIA) to Palestine, 07 July 2023

Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (CPV and OIA) paid an official visit to the State of Palestine from 05-07 July 2023. During the visit, he called on Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Mohammad Ibrahim Shtayyeh, Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Riyad al-Maliki and Diplomatic Advisor to the President H.E. Dr. Majdi Khaldi.

2. As part of Government of India’s developmental assistance, Secretary (CPV & OIA) commissioned the National Printing Press of Palestine in Surda and visited the India-Palestine Techno Park in Birzeit, as well as project sites of Centre for Empowerment of Women (Turathi) and the Palestine Diplomatic Institute.

3. Secretary (CPV & OIA) along with Minister of Health Dr. Mai Kaileh jointly inaugurated the Artificial Limb Fitment Camp at Abu Rayya Rehabilitation Center, organized by Govt. of India in association with Bhagvan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), Jaipur. The camp is expected to benefit about 600 Palestinians.

4. During the visit, he also interacted with the Palestinian Alumni of Indian Universities under the scholarship scheme of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations. Scholarships and capacity building of Palestinian youth has been an important component of India’s development assistance to Palestine. More than 12,000 Palestinian students have graduated from Indian Universities over the years, and more than 1,300 Palestinian officials have undergone training under our ITEC programme.

5. India has been extending various forms of economic assistance to Palestine amounting to approximately US$ 130.5 million, including US$ 70.6 million worth of developmental assistance. India has also provided budgetary support to the tune of US$ 39 million to the Palestinian Authority. Since 2002, India has contributed a total of US$ 29.53 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for the Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The visit of Secretary (CPV & OIA) reaffirmed India’s continued developmental support to the people of Palestine. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

SAUDI ARABIA

Secretary General of Muslim World League calls on the President, 12 July 2023

The Secretary General of Muslim World League, Dr Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa called on the President, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.

Welcoming Dr Al-Issa on his first official visit to India, the President said that India appreciates the role and objectives of the Muslim World League in promoting tolerant values, moderation of consciousness and inter-faith dialogue. She stated that India, as a multi-cultural, multi-lingual, multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, celebrates unity in diversity. Our more than 200 million Indian Muslim brothers and sisters make us the country with the second largest population of Muslims in the world.

The President said that India attaches great importance to its relationship with Saudi Arabia. The two countries have a longstanding history of amicable relations rooted in trade and people to people ties. Both our countries have valuable teachings to share with the world, she added.

The President said that India and Saudi Arabia both condemn terrorism in its all forms and are calling for ‘zero tolerance’ against terrorism. The two leaders agreed that there is a need for a holistic approach to counter terrorism and violent extremism, and this is possible only by engaging with moderate schools of thoughts. The President appreciated Dr Al-Issa’s stand against extremism, terrorism and violence. She expressed confidence that his visit to India would provide more avenues for collaboration with the Muslim World League. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

PM holds talks with Secretary General of Muslim World League, 12 July 2023

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi held talks with the Secretary General of Muslim World League, H.E. Sheikh Dr Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa on furthering inter-faith dialogue, countering extremist ideologies, promoting global peace, and deepening the partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.

Replying to a tweet by H.E. Sheikh Dr Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa about the meeting, the Prime Minister tweeted;

“Pleased to have met H.E. Sheikh Dr Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary General of Muslim World League and Chairman of the Organisation of Muslim Scholars. We had a great exchange of views on furthering inter-faith dialogue, countering extremist ideologies, promoting global peace, and deepening partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.” Source: Press Information Bureau.

SYRIA

Visit of Minister of State for External Affairs, Shri. V. Muraleedharan to Syria (July 12-13, 2023), 11 July 2023

Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, will pay an official visit to the Syrian Arab Republic from 12-13 July 2023. This will be the first Ministerial-level visit from India to Syria since August 2016, and the first visit of Shri V. Muraleedharan to the country.

2. During the visit, MoS is likely to meet the Syrian leadership in capital Damascus for wide-ranging discussions. He will also interact with a group of Syrian students who have studied or are proceeding to study in India under Govt of India’s scholarship scheme. MoS is also expected to meet functionaries of the Syrian Orthodox Church.

3. India and Syria have traditionally enjoyed warm and friendly relations based on deep-rooted people to people ties. India has maintained its Embassy in Syria all along the course of conflict in Syria. A large number of students, businessmen and patients travel to India. India has contributed immensely to the capacity building of the Syrian youth over the years through scholarship schemes and training courses under the flagship ITEC programme.

4. This visit is expected to lend further momentum to the strong relationship between the two countries. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Visit of Minister of State for External Affairs, Shri. V. Muraleedharan to Syria (July 12-13, 2023), 14 July 2023

Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs paid an official visit to Syrian Arab Republic from 12-13 July 2023, the first Ministerial-level visit from India to Syria since August 2016.​

2.​ During the visit, MoS called on H.E. Dr. Bashar Al Assad, President and H.E. Eng. Hussein Arnous, Prime Minister of Syria and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties, including development partnership assistance, education and capacity building. The Syrian leadership widely appreciated India’s humanitarian support to Syria in the hour of need, particularly in the aftermath of devastating Earthquake in February 2023. MoS announced 300 new scholarships to Syrian students for studying in India. He also conveyed that a consignment of anti-cancer medicines will be supplied to Syria at an early date.

3.​ MoS had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Fayssal Mekdad, Minister of Foreign Affairs & Expatriates of Syria on wide ranging matters of bilateral and multilateral matters. He also had a meeting with H.E. Dr. Hassan Al Ghabbash, Minister of Health of Syria, where ways to strengthen health cooperation was discussed. ​

4. MoS called on His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Syriac Patriarch of Antioch and all the East and discussed the robust people-to-people ties between the two countries, especially between the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and Kerala.

5. MoS along with H.E. Dr. Bassam Ibrahim, Minister of Higher Education of Syria interacted with a group of Syrian students who have studied or are proceeding to study in India under Government of India’s scholarship scheme. MoS also visited NextGen India Syria Center of Excellence in Information Technology (NexGen ISCE IT) in Damascus set up by India in 2021. Minister of Communications and Technology of Syria H.E Eng Iyad Mohammad Al-Khatib joined MoS at the Centre.

6. The visit of MoS to Syria has been highly productive and provided an opportunity to find new ways and means to take the bilateral cooperation to higher level. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Dr. Irshad Ahmad appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Syrian Arab Republic, 26 July 2023

Dr. Irshad Ahmad, presently Counsellor in the Embassy of India, Muscat, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Syrian Arab Republic.

2. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Prime Minister’s visit to France and UAE (July 13-15, 2023), 12 July 2023

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will pay an Official Visit to France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 13-15 July 2023.

Prime Minister will visit Paris from 13-14 July 2023 at the invitation of H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France. Prime Minister will be the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade on 14 July 2023, where a tri-services Indian armed forces contingent would be participating.

Prime Minister will hold formal talks with President Macron. President Macron will host a State Banquet as well as a private dinner in honour of the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet the Prime Minister of France as well as the Presidents of the Senate and the National Assembly of France. He will separately interact with the Indian diaspora in France, CEOs of Indian and French companies, and prominent French personalities.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the India – France Strategic Partnership, and Prime Minister’s visit will provide an opportunity to chart the course of the partnership for the future across diverse sectors such as strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation.

Prime Minister will, thereafter, visit Abu Dhabi on July 15. Prime Minister will hold talks with H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has been steadily strengthening and Prime Minister’s visit will be an opportunity to identify ways to take this forward in various domains such as energy, education, healthcare, food security, fintech, defence and culture. It will also be an opportunity to discuss cooperation on global issues, particularly in the context of UAE’s Presidency of COP-28 of the UNFCCC and India’s G-20 Presidency in which UAE is a Special Invitee. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Prime Minister’s Departure Statement ahead of his visit to France and UAE, 13 July 2023

I am travelling to France on an Official Visit at the invitation of my friend, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France, from July 13-14.

This visit is particularly special as I will join President Macron for the French National Day, or Bastille Day celebrations in Paris as the Guest of Honour. An Indian tri-services contingent will be part of the Bastille Day Parade, while Indian Air Force aircraft will perform a fly-past on the occasion.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of our strategic partnership. Rooted in deep trust and commitment, our two countries cooperate closely across various domains including defence, space, civil nuclear, blue economy, trade, investment, education, culture and people to people ties. We also work together on regional and global issues.

I look forward to meeting President Macron and holding wide-ranging discussions on taking forward this longstanding and time-tested partnership over the next 25 years. I have had the opportunity to meet President Macron several times since my last Official Visit to France in 2022, most recently in Hiroshima, Japan in May 2023 during the G-7 Summit.

I also look forward to my interactions with the French leadership, including H.E. Ms. Elisabeth Borne, Prime Minister of France, H.E. Mr. Gerard Larcher, Presidents of the Senate, and H.E. Ms. Yael Braun-Pivet, President of the National Assembly.

During my visit, I will have the opportunity to meet the vibrant Indian community, leading CEOs from both countries as well as prominent French personalities. I am confident that my visit will provide a new impetus to our strategic partnership.

From Paris, I will be travelling to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, for an Official Visit on July 15. I look forward to meeting my friend, H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Our two countries are engaged across a wide range of sectors such as trade, investments, energy, food security, science & technology, education, fintech, defence, security, and robust people-to-people ties. Last year, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and I agreed on a Roadmap on the future of our partnership, and I look forward to discussing with him how to further deepen our ties.

UAE will be hosting the 28th Conference of Parties of the UNFCCC (COP-28) later this year. I also look forward to exchanging views on strengthening global cooperation towards accelerating climate action to facilitate the energy transition and implementation of the Paris Agreement.

I am confident that my visit to UAE will usher in a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Prime Minister arrives in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 15 July 2023

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi arrived at Abu Dhabi in the morning of 15 July 2023.

2. In a special gesture, Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the airport. A ceremonial welcome and Guard of honour were accorded to Prime Minister Modi. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Prime Minister’s meeting with Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, President-designate of CoP28, 15 July 2023

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, President-designate of CoP28 and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in Abu Dhabi on 15 July 2023.

2. The discussions took place on the forthcoming COP-28 of UNFCCC under UAE's Presidency. Dr. Jaber briefed Prime Minister on UAE's approach to this important meeting. Prime Minister conveyed India’s full support to UAE for its COP-28 Presidency. Prime Minister also highlighted India's efforts and initiatives to address climate change, including International SolarAlliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, International Year of Millets and Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE).

3. The discussions also covered energy cooperation between India and UAE. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Prime Minister’s meeting with President of UAE, 15 July 2023

Prime Minister met H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi over delegation level and one-on-one talks in Abu Dhabi on 15 July 2023.

2. The two leaders held wide ranging discussions covering various dimensions of the bilateral partnership, including trade & investment, fintech, energy, renewables, climate action, higher education and people to people ties. The discussions also covered regional and global issues.

3. The two leaders witnessed the exchange of three significant documents:

MoU between RBI and UAE Central Bank for the establishment of a framework to promote the use of local currencies (INR - AED) for cross-border transactions

MoU between RBI and UAE Central Bank for the bilateral cooperation on interlinking their payment and messaging systems

MoU between Ministry of of Education of India, Department of Education and Knowledge, Abu Dhabi and IIT Delhi for planning to establish IIT Delhi - Abu Dhabi, UAE

4. A Joint Statement was issued after the meeting. A separate Joint Statement on Climate Change was also issued. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

India-UAE Joint Statement during the visit of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to UAE, 15 July 2023

President of the United Arab Emirates His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi met in Abu Dhabi on 15 July 2023.

Both sides noted that this was the fifth visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the UAE in the last eight years. Prime Minister Modi last visited the UAE in June 2022 when he visited Abu Dhabi to meet HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to convey his greetings as His Highness assumed the presidency of the UAE. In 2015, Prime Minister Modi became the first Prime Minister of India to visit the UAE in 34 years. This visit was followed by the visit of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India in 2016, then in 2017, when HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations. Moreover, the India-UAE relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the visit of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India in 2017.

The leaders expressed satisfaction that UAE-India relations have witnessed tremendous progress on all fronts. India-UAE trade rose to USD 85 billion in 2022, making the UAE India’s third-largest trading partner for the year 2022-23 and India's second-largest export destination. India is the UAE’s second largest trading partner. In February 2022, India became the first country with which the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Bilateral trade has increased by approximately 15% since the entry into force of the CEPA on 1 May 2022.

The leaders noted the significant global roles played by both countries in 2023, with India’s presidency of the G20 and the UAE’s presidency of COP28. The UAE side appreciated the hosting of the Voice of Global South Summit by India in January 2023. The Indian side also commended the UAE for its instrumental role in promoting the Global South's interests at COP28 and making COP28 a "COP of action.” Both sides also looked forward to further cooperation in plurilateral fora such as I2U2 and the UAE-France-India trilateral cooperation initiative. They noted that such platforms provide greater opportunities for both countries to elevate the partnership to new heights.

Today, in Abu Dhabi, the President of the UAE HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi witnessed the following: I. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the establishment of a framework to promote the use of local currencies (INR-AED) for cross-border transactions by Governors of the respective Central Banks.

II. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on interlinking payment and messaging systems by Governors of the respective Central Banks.

III. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for planning to establish Indian Institute of Technology – Delhi in Abu Dhabi.

The leaders discussed that developing the Local Currency Settlement System between the two countries to settle bilateral trade is a reflection of mutual confidence. Moreover, it underlines the robustness of the economies in both countries and enhances the economic engagement between the UAE and India. The leaders expressed their interest in strengthening cooperation in the payment systems area by enabling integration between their instant payment systems to process cross-border transactions between the UAE and India more efficiently. Such cooperation will also include the mutual acceptance of domestic card schemes by interlinking national card switches. Integration between these systems will enhance access to payment services for the benefit of the citizens and residents of the two countries.

The leaders reiterated their resolve to further strengthen investment ties between the two countries. In this context, they appreciated the efforts of the bilateral High-Level Joint Task Force of Investments. They acknowledged that the UAE became the fourth largest investor in India in 2022-2023, compared to the seventh in 2021-2022. They appreciated the plan of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) to set up a presence in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), a financial free zone in Gujarat, in the next few months. This will further facilitate investment opportunities for the UAE in India.

The leaders also discussed the significance of the tripartite MoU between the Ministry of Education of India, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT Delhi) and Abu Dhabi Department of Education & Knowledge (ADEK) for the establishment of IIT Delhi – Abu Dhabi. In February last year, during the Virtual Summit between the two leaders, they agreed to establish the Indian Institute of Technology in the UAE. Both sides have worked tirelessly over the past two years to make this vision a reality. The two leaders expressed their endorsement and approval that IIT Delhi – Abu Dhabi will become operational by January 2024 by offering a Master’s program in Energy Transition and Sustainability. Other Bachelor, Master’s and Ph.D. Level programs are expected to be offered from September 2024, in addition to establishing research centers in the fields of sustainable energy, climate studies, computing, and data sciences.

The leaders resolved to further enhance bilateral partnership in the energy field, both in oil, gas, and renewable energy. Both sides will take forward their cooperation in Green Hydrogen, solar energy and grid connectivity. Both sides also agreed to increase investment across the energy spectrum, including in India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve Programme.

The leaders acknowledged the joint work on issues of climate change, particularly during India’s presidency of the G20 and the UAE’s presidency of COP28. They resolved to work together to make COP28 a success for all.

Recognizing the importance of food security, the leaders reiterated their resolve to promote the reliability and resilience of food supply chains and expand food and agriculture trade, including through food corridors projects in India. The UAE side will complete its consultations with various Indian stakeholders swiftly for the early realization of projects in this area.

The leaders highlighted the importance of the health sector and scope of cooperation bilaterally and in third countries by energizing ongoing health cooperation and further diversifying it. The potential of both countries to become a reliable alternative in global health supply chains of vaccines and medicines was highlighted. Opportunities for collaboration in the growing health infrastructure in the UAE and India were also discussed.

The leaders noted that people-to-people contacts, which date back centuries, are one of the strongest and most important pillars of the historic India-UAE ties. The UAE expressed appreciation that the large Indian diaspora continues to play a significant role in the society and economy of the UAE and further reinforces bilateral relations.

The leaders agreed to further strengthen bilateral collaboration to strengthen maritime security and connectivity in the region to promote prosperity in India, the UAE, and the shared neighborhood. They also agreed to enhance defense exchanges, sharing of experiences, training, and capacity building.

The leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to the fight against extremism and terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, in all forms, at both the regional and international levels. They agreed to further deepen their bilateral cooperation in the fight against terrorism, terrorist financing, and extremism. In this context, they emphasized the importance of promoting the values of peace, moderation, coexistence, and tolerance among peoples and stressed the need for all forms of extremism, hate speech, discrimination, and incitement to be renounced.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of multilateralism and called for collective action to promote a just, rules-based global order. The two leaders also expressed satisfaction on the coordination between the two sides on UN Security Council matters, especially in 2022, when both countries served as non-permanent members of the UNSC. Prime Minister Modi commended the UAE’s achievements during the UAE’s term as an elected member of the Security Council. The UAE reiterated its endorsement of India’s bid for permanent membership of the reformed UNSC.

Prime Minister Modi thanked HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his warm hospitality to his delegation. Prime Minister Modi is looking forward to the participation of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the G20 Leaders’ Summit on 9-10 September 2023 in New Delhi.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, exploring emerging areas of collaboration, and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond. Source: Press Information Bureau.

India-UAE: Joint Statement on Climate Change, 15 July 2023

Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recognized the urgent need to address the global challenge of climate change through global collective action while respecting the foundational principles and obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on the Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. The leaders committed to enhance cooperation on climate ambition, decarbonization, and clean energy, and work together to have tangible and meaningful outcomes from the 28th Session of the UNFCCC Conference of Parties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the UAE as the selected host country of COP28 in 2023 and extends his full support to the UAE’s COP28 Incoming Presidency. His Highness President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in turn, congratulated India for its leadership role in the G20.

Both leaders urgently call upon the international community to expedite efforts in order to preserve the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement through the fulfilment of nationally determined contributions and the display of solidarity and support. While firmly upholding the principles and provisions outlined in the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement, including the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, considering the diverse national circumstances of each nation.

Both leaders underscore the imperative of achieving ambitious, balanced, and implementation-oriented outcomes at COP28 across all the important pillars of global climate action; namely the mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and means of implementation including climate finance. The leaders call upon all Parties to engage constructively and demonstrate solidarity in the pursuit of these outcomes.

In this context, both leaders highlighted the importance of the global stocktake (GST) and its successful conclusion at COP28, an ambitious exercise designed to take stock of global collective action to achieve the objectives of the Conventions and the goals of the Paris Agreement. They emphasised the importance of implementing a balanced approach to the Global Stocktake at COP28 and called upon the nations to use the outcomes of GST to strengthen their national commitments including those on mobilisation of greater finance and support to the developing nations. They also stressed emphasize the necessity of international cooperation in supporting developing nations to respond effectively to the adverse impacts of climate change, in accordance with the provisions of the Convention and the Paris Agreement.

Both leaders stress on the imperative of fortifying the adaptation capacities of developing countries in the face of climate impacts. Concrete progress is indispensable in developing the global goal on adaptation (GGA), with a focus on critical areas such as transforming food systems, water management, , safeguarding natural carbon sinks including mangroves, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and safeguarding public health.

Both leaders emphasized the necessity of international cooperation in supporting vulnerable communities to respond effectively to the most adverse impacts of climate change, in accordance with the provisions of the Paris Agreement. In this regard, both leaders expressed the need to accelerate efforts to respond to issues of loss and damage and address the adverse effects of climate by urging Parties to operationalise the loss and damage fund and funding arrangements of COP28.

Both leaders noted that investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, utilization and storage technologies, energy efficiency, and other low-carbon solutions will have the potential to accelerate sustainable economic growth and also foster job creation. The leaders emphasize on the necessity of supporting and deploying all technologies to effectively address and reduce emissions, while ensuring a just transition that enables comprehensive sustainable development. In this regard, both leaders call upon the international community to redouble efforts towards ensuring availability, accessibility and affordability of critical technologies for the developing countries.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of a just energy transition within the framework of climate change, which rests upon three equally significant pillars: energy security and accessibility, economic prosperity, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions all achieved in a just, and equitable manner. They reiterated that UAE and India unequivocally support universal access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all, as an integral component of a broader low-carbon development trajectory, recognizing that millions of individuals lack access to energy.

Both leaders underscored the urgent need for developed countries to fulfil the USD100bn delivery plan so that the goal can be met in 2023, to build trust and support the accessibility and affordability of finance to support developing countries in response to the ongoing impacts of climate. They also recalled the obligations under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement and called upon the nations to take action for doubling the climate finance for adaptation to developing countries from the 2019 level by 2025, in the context of achieving a balance between mitigation and adaptation in the provision of scaled-up financial resources.

The leaders call upon international financial institutions (IFIs) and multilateral development banks (MDBs) to make tangible progress this year in reforming financial mechanisms, unlocking concessional finance, managing risk, and attracting additional private capital to support nationally determined plans aimed at addressing climate change in developing countries. MDBs must be able to address the shared global challenges of the 21st century and finance global public goods without compromising their role in development financing.

Both leaders acknowledged that sustainable and environment-friendly behaviours of individuals, when counted on a mass scale, can be a significant contributor to global climate action. They recognized the importance of promoting awareness on sustainable lifestyles and nudging individuals towards adoption of environment-friendly choices and behaviors. In this regard, both leaders lauded the Mission LiFE initiative of India. Both leaders expressed hope that the COP 28 agenda will also promote this awareness among people to make the right choices for the environment.

Both leaders affirm the importance and significance of India’s G20 presidency and affirm the G20’s role for fostering and accelerating cooperation in combating climate change, with emphasis on finance and technology as critical enablers, as well as on just, inclusive and sustainable energy transitions.

Both leaders recognize the pivotal significance of COP28 hosted in the UAE in fostering enhanced international cooperation, sharing experiences and knowledge, and forging innovative and effective solutions to confront the challenges posed by climate change.

The UAE and India are united in their determination to ensure the successful outcome at COP28 as an inclusive and action-oriented conference that creates a new momentum for effective climate action and international cooperation to advance the goals of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. Source: Press Information Bureau.

ARAB LEAGUE

The 6th India-Arab Partnership Conference, 12 July 2023

Under the aegis of the Arab-Indian Cooperation Forum, the 6th India-Arab Partnership Conference on: "New Horizons in Investment, Trade & Services” was organized on 11-12 July 2023 in New Delhi. Ministers, senior officials and businesspersons from Arab States and India participated in it.

2.​ The Conference is the flagship initiative of both sides to provide an institutional platform for a robust engagement between the business communities. The previous five editions of the conference have guided in laying the foundations of a roadmap and synergizing the economic cooperation between India and the League of Arab States (LAS) countries.

3. ​Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs (MOS) inaugurated the Conference and delivered keynote address. From the Arab side, the Conference was led by Amb Dr. Ali Ibrahim Al Malki, Assistant Secretary General, Head of Economic Affairs Sector of the League of Arab States headquarters who gave welcome address. The conference was rich in content with inaugural session at Ministerial-level, followed by Special Sessions in which discussions were held on investment climates and opportunities. The speakers elaborated on the present state of India-Arab cooperation in various sectors including healthcare, food and energy security and resilient supply chain and means to further enhance them, including by sharing of expertise and best practices. The meeting also stressed the important role of the private sector to push trade and investment relations to wider horizons.

4.​ On the main day evening, Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (CPV & OIA) hosted a dinner for dignitaries, speakers and participants from Arab and Indian side with MOS being the Chief Guest of the occasion. In the concluding session, Secretary (CPV & OIA) delivered a special address to the participants.

5.​ The Conference was jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and the LAS, in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Federation of Arab Businessmen (FAB) and Union of Arab Chambers (UAC). In conclusion, the participants conveyed their sincere appreciation to all stake holders for excellent coordination in putting together a substantive programme.

6. ​They agreed to convene the seventh edition of the IAPC in Arab country in the year 2025. Source: Ministry of External Affairs, India.

LOK SABHA QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 273, 21 July 2023

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-273

ANSWERED ON- 21/07/2023

ARREST OF INDIAN FISHERMEN

273. ADV. ADOOR PRAKASH

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI KARUNANIDHI

SHRI RAJESHBHAI CHUDASAMA

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether the Government is aware that the Indian fishermen were arrested/attacked by foreign naval authorities including Iranian/Srilankan Navy for alleged violation of international sea border in the recent past;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the number of Indian fishermen imprisoned/cases filed in foreign courts against them during the last three years, country-wise;

(c) whether the Indian mission in foreign countries has extended help for the detained fishermen in legal/judicial process and if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the details of measures taken/being taken by the Government for release of fishermen?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & b) The Government has received reports of arrests of Indian fishermen and apprehension of Indian Fishing Boats by foreign countries.  With regard to Iran, Indian Embassy in Tehran has been informed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran that 15 Indian fishermen have been arrested by Iranian authorities in the year 2023.  With regard to Sri Lanka, it has been reported that 74 Indian fishermen have been arrested in the year 2023. 

As per information available with the Ministry, the number of Indian fishermen imprisoned in foreign prisons, country-wise, in the last 3 years is tabulated below:

(c & d) The Government attaches highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. As soon as cases of apprehension of Indian fishermen and their fishing boats are reported, immediate steps are taken by Indian Missions and Posts to seek consular access, ensure their welfare and also pursue their early release and repatriation along with their boats. Consular Officers of Missions/Posts make regular visits to local jails and detention centers to ascertain the condition of Indian fishermen lodged there and provide requisite help and support, including legal assistance in deserving cases. Missions/ Posts abroad also approach the law enforcement agencies to complete the investigation and judicial proceedings at the earliest possible. The focus of the Government’s efforts is on securing the early release of fishermen.

Given the humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of this issue, the Government remains continuously engaged for early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen along with the fishing boats and has put in place bilateral mechanisms to ensure cooperation and understanding between India and the countries concerned, to promote the safety and security of Indian fishermen.

As a result of sustained efforts by the Government, 588 Indian fishermen have been repatriated this year, so far. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1471, 28 July 2023

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1471

ANSWERED ON- 28/07/2023

ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO EMBASSIES

1471. Dr. M. P. ABDUSSAMAD SAMADANI

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether the Government is aware of the issues involved in bringing the mortal remains of Indian

expatriates from Gulf Countries, if so the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government has allotted any funds to embassies to meet the expenses of airfare in

such cases, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) whether the Government will ensure facilities in the flights from Gulf countries to bring dead

bodies and stretcher patients, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a) A single window clearance system is adopted by our Missions/Posts abroad for handling death cases. As soon as the Mission / Post comes to know about unfortunate death of an Indian citizen, the Consular Wing of the Mission/ Post immediately gets in touch with the family/relative of the deceased Indian national. Consent letter (duly attested by a Notary) is arranged from the family in India for local burial/transportation of mortal remains to India. If the family has any suspicion on the death, they are guided to convey the same in the consent letter so that the matter could be taken up with local police authorities by the Mission for post mortem and police investigations. The Mission provides all required assistance and facilitate the completion of all the formalities in coordination with the local police and other authorities for transportation of mortal remains at the earliest possible in accordance with the wishes of the family of the deceased.

(b) Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) has been set up in all Indian Missions and Posts abroad to assist Overseas Indian nationals in times of distress and emergency. Fund is also used for transportation of mortal remains of Indian nationals.

Funds for ICWF are raised by levying a service charge on Consular, Passport and Visa services provided by the Mission/Post. These funds are kept in a separate Account in the concerned Missions and Posts. Powers have been delegated to the Heads of Missions and Posts to incur required expenditure from ICWF. Funds can also be transferred from ICWF account of a Mission to another Mission on need basis.

(c) All Missions and Posts abroad including in the Gulf countries take prompt action for transportation of mortal remains of Indian nationals deceased abroad and stretcher patients through commercial flights in coordination with family of the deceased and local Government authorities. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1481, 28 July 2023

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1482

ANSWERED ON-28/07/2023

BLOOD MONEY FOR DEATH ROW INMATE

1482. ADV. DEAN KURIAKOSE

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether the Government has received any request to intervene in favour of Mrs. Nimisha Priya, who is on death row in Yemen; and

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government has taken any action to ensure that blood money is paid to ensure the safe release of Mrs. Nimisha Priya; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a & b) Government has received some representations, including from civil society, regarding the case of Ms. Nimisha Priya, an Indian nurse who was awarded death penalty in Yemen.

(c & d) Government accords the highest priority for the welfare of Indians abroad and provides all possible support to those who fall in distress including in the instant case. Government of India has provided assistance in the case including by seeking consular access to Ms. Nimisha Priya in jail and providing a lawyer to represent her case from the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). Further issues of any payment should arise only after the legal formalities including in the Supreme Court in Yemen are exhausted. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1483, 28 July 2023

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1483

ANSWERED ON- 28/07/2023

INVESTMENT IN INDIA

1483. SHRI RAJENDRA DHEDYA GAVIT

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether Government has intensified efforts to invite business leaders from Middle East countries for investment in India;

(b) if so, the core areas wherein Government expects investments from the business leaders of these countries; and

(c) the response of the business leaders in so far as business opportunities are concerned vis-à-vis ease of doing business in India?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(DR. RAJKUMAR RANJAN SINGH)

(a to c) India has extensive ties with Middle East countries in a wide range of sectors including in the fields of trade and investments. There are several G2G and B2G mechanisms for the Middle East region such as High Level Task Force on Investment (HLTFI) with UAE, Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) with Saudi Arabia, India-Israel CEO Forum etc. Further, regular high-level business engagements with the region are held by various Chambers of Commerce and Export Promotion Councils. Recently, 6th India-Arab Partnership Conference on: "New Horizons in Investment, Trade & Services” was organized on 11-12 July 2023 in New Delhi in which Ministers, senior officials and businesspersons from Arab States and India.

The Government has also put in place an investor friendly Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy under which most sectors are open for 100% equity participation under the automatic route. India continues to open up its sectors to global investors including investors from Middle East countries and addresses their concerns on regulatory barriers. Several Sovereign Wealth Funds and companies of Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), UAE’s ADIA, DP World, Qatar Investment Authority etc. have invested in various sectors such as Food, Energy, Financial services, Health, Education, Information Technology, Renewable Energy and Infrastructure. Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1544, 28 July 2023

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1544

ANSWERED ON- 28/07/2023

MISSION FOR RELEASE OF INDIAN CITIZENS

1544. SHRI N. K. PREMACHANDRAN

Will the minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-

(a) whether the Government proposes to initiate a mission to ensure release of Indian citizens from the jails of foreign countries who have been incarcerated due to expiry of their visa and other documents necessary for their stay in the foreign country, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government proposes to initiate action for release of Indian fishermen kept in jails of foreign countries for the offence committed by their employer abroad, if so, the details thereof;

(c) the action taken by the Government for the release of Indian fishermen imprisoned in Iran due to crossing of maritime boundary by the fishing boat owned by their employer at UAE;

(d) whether the Government proposes to conduct a mission for finding out the Indian citizen stuck in various countries due to lack of travel documents, tickets; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN)

(a) The Government attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indians in foreign countries. Indian Missions/Posts abroad remain vigilant and closely monitor the incidents of Indian nationals being put in jail or stuck in foreign countries for violation/ alleged violation of local immigration laws. The procedure followed for handling and deporting foreign nationals with expired visa/no visa varies from country to country. Some countries do not arrest the deportee and keep them in detention/deportation centers instead until deportation while others release them after imposing some monetary penalty with instructions for deportation or regularisation of necessary documents. In most cases, illegal immigrants are not incarcerated.

Many foreign countries do not provide information on illegal stay in their countries, except when they are under orders of deportation and travel document/nationality verification is required. Moreover, the information about arrest/detention and deportation is not shared with Indian Missions/Posts and the deportation is done directly by the host Government if the deportee has valid travel document. Our Missions/Posts are contacted by the host Governments only in such cases where the nationality verification and issuance of Emergency Certificate (EC) to the deportee is required.

The Government enables legal travel and stay of Indian nationals abroad. Whenever any detention of an Indian national for violation of immigration laws is brought to our notice, our Missions/Posts abroad seek consular access and visit detention centres where Indian nationals are detained. After confirmation of Indian nationality, our Missions/Posts abroad issue Emergency Certificates to Indian nationals, who do not hold valid Indian passports, to facilitate their return to India. The Mission/Post officials abroad also attend to labour/general court hearings against Indian nationals for violation of immigration laws from time to time. Some of our Missions/Posts abroad also issue advisories to Indian nationals counselling them to regularize their visas and residency documents in the country of their stay.

Financial assistance is provided to the people being repatriated whenever a deserving case is brought to the attention of the concerned Indian Mission. This includes, if necessary, bearing legal fees, payment of fine, air fare for return to India. Financial assistance is provided through Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) on means tested basis.

(b & c) The Government receives reports of arrest of Indian fishermen from time to time. Indian fishermen are generally apprehended by countries on charges of allegedly fishing in their territorial waters and cases are filed related to illegal fishing, trespassing, crossing the international maritime boundary line illegally, etc under the respective Acts of the concerned countries.

The Government attaches highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. As soon as cases of apprehension of Indian fishermen and their fishing boats are reported, immediate steps are taken by Indian Missions and Posts to seek consular access, ensure their welfare and also pursue their early release and repatriation along with their boats. Consular Officers of Missions/Posts make regular visits to local jails and detention centers to ascertain the condition of Indian fishermen lodged there and provide requisite help and support, including legal assistance through Indian Community Welfare Fund. Missions/Posts abroad also approach the law enforcement agencies to complete the investigation and judicial proceedings at the earliest possible. The focus of the Government’s efforts is on securing the early release of fishermen.

With regards to Iran, our Mission has been intimated by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the arrest of 15 Indian fishermen in 2023, out of which 5 have already been released and Mission is in regular touch with the concerned authorities for quick release of the remaining fishermen. Once fishermen are released, Mission takes care of all their basic needs including boarding and lodging, ensuring their welfare and makes necessary arrangements for their repatriation to India using ICWF in deserving cases.

(d & e) Robust mechanisms are already in place in Missions and Posts abroad for helping Indians in various types of distress situations, including those stuck due to lack of travel documents and tickets. The details have been shared above in Para (a). Source: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India.

RAJYA SABHA QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 77, 27 July 2023

RAJYA SABHA

STARRED QUESTION NO-77

ANSWERED ON- 27/07/2023

SEIZURE OF PASSPORTS

*77. SHRI ELAMARAM KAREEM:

Will the Minister of External Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the number of passports seized by the authorities in the country as the concerned persons travelled to Yemen or such countries;

(b) the reasons for not returning the seized passports even if the passport holder travelled to such countries for job purpose out of compulsion from the employer or without the knowledge of such a travel ban for Indians;

(c) whether Government will consider matters on a case to case basis and take actions to return the passports; and

(d) in what way the grievances on this issue can be raised by the citizens and resolve the same?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(DR. SUBRAHMANYAM JAISHANKAR)

(a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (A) TO (D) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *77 REGARDING “SEIZURE OF PASSPORTS” FOR ANSWER ON 27.07.2023

(a) to (d): In view of the fragile political and security situation in Yemen, Government of India promulgated a travel ban to Yemen through Gazette Notification S.O. 3223 (E) dated 26 September 2017. The Notification continues to remain in force. Under the provisions of this Notification so far, 422 passports have been seized by Indian authorities for travelling to Yemen despite the travel ban. No passports have been seized for travel to any other country.

In order to mitigate the sufferings of the people who had travelled to Yemen due to job compulsions or due to ignorance, Government has issued guidelines to all Passport Issuing Authorities to process the release of passports on case-to-case basis. A final decision for release of passports is taken by the Ministry of External Affairs and conveyed to Passport Issuing Authorities. So far, 169 passports have been released.

Any Indian citizen whose passport has been seized for travel to Yemen despite the travel ban can approach the respective Passport Issuing Authority for release of the passport. Government continues to take a compassionate view on individuals who have travelled to Yemen despite the travel ban. Source: Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India.

As part of the policy, the MEI@ND standardizes spellings and date format to make the text uniformly accessible and stylistically consistent. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views/positions of the MEI@ND. Editor, MEI@ND P R Kumaraswamy.